Lifeguards at the Lake

LIfeguard

By Lori Jane Gliha&nbsp|&nbsp

Posted: Fri 4:59 PM, Jul 12, 2002&nbsp|&nbsp

Updated: Fri 7:14 PM, Jul 12, 2002

They have to be able to swim 500 yards and lift a heavy brick from the bottom of a pool. In order for the American Red Cross to certify people as lifeguards, those are just a few of the prerequisites people must meet.

Prospective lifeguards must also undergo lifeguard training for at least 28 hours. During the training, they learn backboard techniques, CPR and water safety.

Lansing's chapter of the American Red Cross certified 46 new lifeguards and renewed certification for 23 others during May and June. The Red Cross is not offering any more lifeguard classes for the rest of the summer, but the organization says some trained lifeguards who are looking to work more hours could still be willing to take a job at Lake Lansing.

Kristen Deane, a lifeguard at Hawk island Park in Lansing, has worked at pools and lakes. She said it's nice to work at the lake because the natural scenery is pleasant, but she said it's more stressful than working at a pool.

Some lifeguards said lakes are muggy, and it's difficult to see people when they go under water. The lake can have debris, which can tangle people's legs.

Lifeguards at Lake Lansing will make about $8.77 an hour. Lifeguards at Lansing pools make up to $8.25, according to Mary Kay Gavitt, a manager at Hunter Park pool.

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